Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis Oil for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: An-Open Label, Add-On, Pilot Study
Authors:
Assaf Shelef, Yoram Barak, Uri Berger, Diana Paleacu, Shelly Tadger, Igor Plopsky, Yehuda Baruch
Published in Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease
27 February 2016
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
OBJECTIVE:
To measure efficacy and safety of medical cannabis oil (MCO) containing THC as an add-on to pharmacotherapy, in relieving behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD).
METHODS:
Eleven AD patients were recruited to an open label, 4 weeks, prospective trial.
RESULTS:
Ten patients completed the trial. Significant reduction in CGI severity score (6.5 to 5.7; p < 0.01) and NPI score were recorded (44.4 to 12.8; p < 0.01). NPI domains of significant decrease were: Delusions, agitation/aggression, irritability, apathy, sleep and caregiver distress.
CONCLUSION:
Adding MCO to AD patients’ pharmacotherapy is safe and a promising treatment option.
PAYWALL
Citation:
Shelef A, Barak Y, Berger U, et al. Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis Oil for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: An-Open Label, Add-On, Pilot Study. Journal of Alzheimers Disease. 2016;51(1):15-19. doi:10.3233/jad-150915.